Excavation is the first stage in the construction process. It’s also one of the most important as this is where your building’s foundation will be poured. It may seem as simple as digging the soil out, but there are several steps involved in excavating that require special equipment and skills to make sure the entire phase goes smoothly. Let’s check them out here. 

4 Key Steps When Excavating a Construction Site

1. Rough Staking

Rough staking is when the construction crew marks exactly where and how deep they need to dig, usually with stakes. They’ll also mark any structures, utility lines, vegetation, rocks, or other landscape features that need to be removed or avoided. This also helps prevent mistakes that could cause delays, such as accidentally breaking a water pipe. 

2. Site Clearing

During site clearing, the team will remove or demolish the plants and structures that were rough staked earlier. This ensures that there aren’t any obstructions that will make it difficult to dig or pour the foundation later on. They’ll likely start using heavy machinery, like excavators and loaders, to do this.

3. Excavating

After clearing the designated area, the contractor can finally start taking the soil away to make space for the foundation. Depending on how loose the soil is, they may have to set up planks along the sides of the dig to prevent the ground from caving in. The crew may also dig some trenches to keep the site from flooding. 

4. Site Grading & Erosion Control

In construction, grading refers to the process of leveling the excavated site to achieve a certain slope and reshape the land. This keeps rainwater from draining into the constructed structure and also prepares the property for landscaping. If the ground is in danger from erosion during rainstorms, the contractor may also set up ditches, barriers, or ripraps to keep runoff from going to neighboring properties. 

Excavation is a crucial process in construction that affects your foundation’s strength. To make sure your project runs smoothly in Rhinelander, WI, choose Musson Brothers. The company has provided excavating, paving, and other site development services for developers and commercial properties throughout the area since 1945. You can be sure that they’ll give your construction project the attention it deserves. You can call the office at (715) 365-8700 or visit their website to learn more about their services.